If you’re a small business owner, preparing for a business trip can be stressful.

Some business credit card issuers may require a personal guarantee, making you liable for card usage and repayments.

But there are some best practices you can employ to make the journey smoother and more rewarding.

While face-to-face meetings with clients and colleagues have undeniable value, business travel comes with costs and challenges. But by planning smartly and utilizing a dedicated business credit card strategically, you can maximize the advantages and avoid unnecessary hassles.

Here are four tips for optimizing your travel experience as a business credit card holder:

1. Simplify and Track Spending
   A dedicated business credit card can be a valuable tool for small business owners, especially during work trips. It not only provides a convenient and secure way to make purchases before and during your journey but also helps you separate personal and business transactions.

   This capability is crucial for corporations and partnerships, and it’s also a wise practice for solo entrepreneurs. Consistently using a business credit card – and any free reporting tools that come with it – can eliminate the hassle of sifting through stacks of receipts at the end of the month and during tax season.

   Some business credit card issuers may still require a personal guarantee, making you liable for card usage
   and repayments. So, responsible management of your business card bills is essential, just like with your
   personal card.

2. Earn Rewards for Future Trips
   Frequent road warriors can substantially offset future travel expenses by choosing a business credit card that offers rewards in the form of miles, points, or cash back.

   Some cards may provide enhanced rewards when you book directly through designated online portals. To maximize the value of your rewards, it’s worth shopping around, because rewards programs for airlines and hotel brands change frequently. In some cases, grabbing a great limited-time-only deal may be more advantageous than racking up loyalty points.

   Additionally, consider a business credit card that offers extra rewards for entire spending categories such as travel (e.g., airfare), car rentals, entertainment, or restaurant meals. Depending on your business practices, those rewards could be preferable to brand-specific perks.

3. Reduce the Costs of Air Travel
   You know that you should take advantage of airline reward programs and frequent flyer miles to reduce ticket prices and checked bag fees and to look for statement credits on air travel, but if your main goal is reducing costs rather than accruing rewards, you can save on air travel in several ways.

   Opting for economy class seats can substantially lower expenses. If that’s a deal-breaker for you, check your business credit card for upgrade opportunities. If your card isn’t brand-specific, explore different airlines and aggregator sites to find the best deals. By comparison shopping and booking several weeks in advance whenever possible, you can secure the most competitive rates.

   Some business credit cards may entitle you to access to airport lounges, saving you money on refreshments
   and Wi-Fi.

   Being flexible with your arrival and departure dates may also help save money. Employing these cost-saving measures can especially benefit small-business owners who want to get the most out of their travel budgets.

4. Unlock Hidden Benefits and Protections
   Many business credit cardholders aren’t aware of the full range of travel benefits that their cards offer. Review your card’s guide to benefits and learn about lesser-known perks that can improve your travel experience.

   Some business credit cards provide valuable protections such as auto rental coverage, travel accident or cancellation insurance, and lost luggage reimbursement. Premium cards may even give you access to concierge services and in-person assistance at airports.

   By effectively utilizing a dedicated business credit card, you can enhance your business travel experience, maximize cost savings, streamline your bookkeeping, and more. Just remember to choose a business credit card that aligns with your specific needs and to manage your credit responsibly.

Explore Your Options

For more actionable tips, consult your financial institution.